Laredo Health Department offers HIV/STD testing

LAREDO, TX . – An average of 10 people per day are assisted in the clinic for sexually transmitted diseases, predominantly for cases of syphilis, gonorrhea and genital warts.

This clinic is open only on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Laredo Health Department, said health educator, Juan Méndez.

“The clinic of sexually transmitted diseases currently offers testing for chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, but it is important to make an appointment to provide better care,” he said .

He added that treatments are offered at very low cost with guaranteed results.

“Mainly we find syphilis and genital warts that require immediate attention, but it is important to come to our facilities,” said Mendez.

He mentioned that his work in the Department , along with Beto Silva and Erika Dominguez, is to prevent infections of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) , through different actions. They are part of a group of 11 people doing this work in Laredo who are supported by state agencies.

” We have programs like free distribution of condoms which will take place on Bethany House this week.”

“We also give health education and if people want to get tested for HIV, we offer the equipment and help by professional staff ,” said Mendez.

FACT
SYPHILIS
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) caused by bacteria. Syphilis can cause long-term complications or death if not treated properly.

GONORRHOEA
Symptoms in men and women may vary : Gonorrhea can affect the anus, eyes , mouth , genitals or throat.
This disease can affect the ability to have children to women who are not treated .

CHLAMYDIAL
Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) commonly caused by bacteria. Chlamydia can infect both men and women and can cause severe and permanent damage to the genitals of women.